It is critical that before signing a lease agreement you are fully aware of the terms and conditions set forth therein.

I believe that hiring an attorney to review or draft a lease will offset thousands of dollars of future problems. However, I have given a few basics tip to help you on having a good rental.

Basics that a tenant should do before signing a lease for an apartment rental.

Visit the apartment

Check out the condition

Take a look at all appliances, lighting, plumbing, heat/AC, window guards, windows, floors, walls, electric plugs and switches, signs of vermin or bug infestation, odors emanating from neighbors and noise.

Also take a look at the common areas and make sure that they are clean and safe. Identify where the trash is kept and how it is maintained.

Furthermore take pictures and make a list of anything that is a problem. Give this list to your landlord and have the repairs made before moving in.

Read all paperwork associated with the rental

Read and fully understand the terms and conditions of the lease. Also it is essential that you also read any and all associated documents including riders, condo or co-op agreements, additional agreements.

If there are conditions you don’t understand discuss them with your lawyer, landlord. managing agent or realtor before signing.

Any lease you sign should include the following basic terms in the Lease Agreement:

Identify the apartment location and use

Length of lease

Rent amount and terms

Security deposit amount and terms

Warranty of Habitability

Care of Apartment: maintenance, repairs and alterations

Objectionable conduct

Services and facilities

Entry into apartment

Assignment and Sublet

Default provisions

Remedies

Fees and Expenses

Property loss, damage, fire

Insurance

Renewal options

Below are some typical problem areas a tenant should look for in a lease: